Story perspectives

Indiana Loses Heisman Hero, Adds TCU QB, Targets Playoffs

8/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Indiana lost Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, drafted No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders after a 2025 season that delivered its first national championship.
Transfer quarterback Josh Hoover arrived from TCU with 9,629 yards and 79 touchdowns, earning coach Curt Cignetti’s praise for a 46-yard pass in 2024.
Cignetti said Indiana will run more, cut RPOs to curb Hoover’s turnovers, and enters 2026 as a playoff favorite against Ohio State and Michigan.

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Story summary

Indiana lost Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, drafted No. 1 overall by the Las Vegas Raiders after a 2025 season that delivered its first national championship.
Transfer quarterback Josh Hoover arrived from TCU with 9,629 yards and 79 touchdowns, earning coach Curt Cignetti’s praise for a 46-yard pass in 2024.
Cignetti said Indiana will run more, cut RPOs to curb Hoover’s turnovers, and enters 2026 as a playoff favorite against Ohio State and Michigan.